Work in Canada
Nurses in Canada – Jobs, Eligibility, Registration, and Immigration Pathways in 2024
Nursing is a cornerstone of the healthcare system, with professionals playing a crucial role in patient care and support across various settings. This blog shows not only the best jobs for nurses in Canada but also competitive salaries in the nursing sector.
Why Canada Stands Out for Nursing-Healthcare Careers
According to recent studies, Canada is celebrated as the best country for nursing salaries. The compelling reasons behind this accolade include the country’s aging population, leading to a high demand for nurses, and the exceptional working conditions coupled with attractive benefits.
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With its high demand for skilled healthcare professionals, Canada offers various pathways for qualified and experienced nurses to become permanent residents. Key immigration programs for nurses in 2024 are:
- Express Entry – Express Entry, a vital economic immigration program, is open to skilled workers, including nurses. Meeting the educational, work experience, and language proficiency requirements significantly enhances your likelihood of receiving an invitation to apply for Canada PR under the Federal Skilled Worker Program.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Nurses can also opt for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), where different provinces urgently seek skilled nurses. Provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick have specific streams welcoming nurses.
| Key Pathways | Criteria |
| Ontario | Invited via Ontario Human Capital Priorities Stream |
| British Columbia | Healthcare Professional category under BC PNP’s Skills Immigration and Express Entry categories |
| Saskatchewan | International Health Worker EOI pool for nurses |
| Nova Scotia | Labour Market Priorities Stream |
| Manitoba | Pathway for nurses through a government recruitment drive |
| New Brunswick | Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) program |
| Alberta | Alberta Express Entry and Alberta Opportunity streams |
| Yukon | Targeted Nurse Bridging Program and the Foreign Credential Recognition Program |
NOC 31301 – Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses in Canada provide direct nursing care, deliver health education programs, and offer consultative services in various settings such as hospitals, Canadian nursing organizations, nursing homes, clinics, and community health centers.
Here’s a breakdown of the major occupational categories:
| Broad Occupational Category | TEER | Major Group | Sub-major Group | Minor Group |
| Health Occupations | University Degree | Professional Occupations in Health | Nursing and Allied Health Professionals | Nursing and Allied Health Professionals |
Explore diverse job profiles in the nursing field, including:
Clinical Nurse Community Health Nurse Intensive Care Nurse Nurse Researcher Nursing Consultant Occupational Health Nurse Private Duty Nurse Public Health Nurse Registered Nurse (R.N.) Registered Psychiatric Nurse (R.P.N.)
Employment Requirements
For Registered Nurses:
- Completion of an approved nursing program
- Additional academic training for specializations
- Registration with a regulatory body in all provinces and territories
For Registered Psychiatric Nurses
- Completion of a relevant program
- Registration with specific regulatory bodies
Nurse Registration Process in Canada
Certain roles are excluded from the NOC 31301 category, including nursing coordinators, nursing services managers, registered practical nurses, and nurse practitioners.
Aspiring nurses seeking registration in Canada must provide:
- A proof of education
- Recent experience;
- Clear registration and jurisprudence exams;
- Language proficiency;
- Citizenship or authorized immigration status, and;
- Disclose past offenses and health conditions.
Choosing a Nursing Career in Canada?
On 30 January 2024, in a bid to address healthcare challenges, the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) introduces the Stellar Certification Program, focusing initially on long-term care. Designed to enhance workplace excellence, the program recognizes and promotes support for Canadian nurses, prioritizing safety, best staffing practices, and professional development. The certification aims to attract and retain talent, reduce business risk, and uphold diversity, ultimately elevating the reputation of nurses in Canada.
Embarking on a nursing career in Canada requires strategic planning. Aspiring nurses should focus on obtaining the necessary education, gaining practical experience, and fulfilling registration requirements.
As you consider nursing jobs in Canada, remember that success in this field goes beyond qualifications – it’s about embracing opportunities, showcasing skills, and contributing to the health and well-being of communities.
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